Combining Styles in Your Traditional Home

A recent analysis by Realtor.com found that only 13% of homes listed would be considered contemporary. The overwhelming majority of us live in traditional-style homes, even if the interiors feel “modern.” Understanding your home’s style is more than a matter of aesthetics. It’s the foundation for every design decision, from cabinets to curtains.

I like to simplify the process for homeowners. Every style falls broadly into one of two categories — traditional or contemporary. And most homes fall into the traditional category.

Lately, the exteriors of new homes are increasingly contemporary, which is unfortunate since the insides are often still being designed in a traditional style, ending up with a mismatch. If you have a modern, contemporary-style home, the appropriate way to finish out the interior is by coordinating your permanent finishes to this exterior style. Flooring, tile, bathtub style, cabinetry, countertops, fireplace, moldings, and anything else that is part of the building should be in the same contemporary style as the exterior. This will keep your home timeless and prevent you from feeling like you need to “update” again in just a few years. But I digress…

You don’t think you like traditional, but you do

While you may in fact prefer a modern aesthetic, your home (and your personal style) likely still has a traditional foundation. Ignoring this can result in spaces that feel disjointed or “off,” even if you can’t pinpoint why.

Lots of clients will avoid calling or thinking of their style as traditional because the word evokes images of fussy outdated draperies or their grandma’s flowered couch. But the truth is that most people do prefer traditional styles — albeit modern ones — to overly contemporary looks. Traditional doesn’t mean outdated or old-fashioned. It can be modern, too. Classic, farmhouse, Mediterranean, Parisian, colonial, coastal, rustic lodge… even your basic suburban ranch home is probably traditional. So whatever you call it, the goal of good design is to create harmony, so that every room, every architectural element, and every piece of furniture feels like it belongs together.

Traditional vs. Contemporary

What is traditional and contemporary anyway, and how do you know which style of home you have? Well, basically, contemporary is contemporary, and traditional is almost everything else. So unless you truly love the sleek, contemporary, ultra modern style, you probably would fall into some level of traditional.

Now, these descriptions aren’t dictionary definitions, but rather a practical framework I use to make cohesive, thoughtful choices for my clients’ homes.

Note: Every photo you see in this blog post is traditional in style. Some are sporting more modern and contemporary décor, but they are all in the realm of traditional style homes.

Keeping Permanent Finishes in Line with Your Home’s Architecture

Just like I mentioned above with contemporary buildings, in your traditional home, the architectural details — millwork, window style, crown moldings, staircases, and railings — should ideally be true to the style of the building itself. Think of it like the “body” of the home. You want all the “arms and legs” to belong on that body and not look like a mismatch. Identifying the style of your home’s “body” helps me quickly determine what will work and what will feel out of place, so every element supports the overall design.

When building, updating, or renovating, those foundational pieces should stay true to the home’s style. That means designing a kitchen that resonates with the traditional architecture, a fireplace that has proportion and presence (not a smooth linear one), and flooring that feels like it belongs. Even if you prefer a cleaner, more modern look, it’s important that the fixed elements still speak the home’s language.

Where we Can get creative

It’s completely possible to mix styles beautifully. The goal is to make it look curated rather than confused. When the fixed finishes stay aligned with your home’s architecture, you have the freedom to layer in pieces that reflect your taste and lifestyle.

For example, a traditional dining room with paneled walls can look stunning paired with a clean-lined dining table or a modern chandelier. The blend works because the permanent details keep the design grounded and authentic to the home. It’s important to note, though, that the opposite isn’t as easy to pull off. Contemporary homes typically make the most sense with contemporary or modern furnishings.

When done well, mixing traditional and modern elements creates spaces that feel timeless, not trendy. It’s about honoring the architecture while expressing your personal style in a way that feels natural and effortless. That’s the art of great design - knowing where you can take creative liberties and where you shouldn’t.

The Professional Difference

Identifying your home’s style is just the beginning. Applying that knowledge requires experience and a trained eye to ensure that every decision, from layout to materials to final styling, contributes to a beautiful result.

This is where working with a professional designer makes all the difference. It’s not about following trends or buying pretty pieces; it’s about creating a home that feels entirely right, inside and out, no matter your style.

Teresa Cannon Design provides luxury residential interior design services in Tampa Bay.

If you would like Teresa Cannon Design to create something amazing for your home, reach out by filling out our CONTACT FORM.